Let’s make Oaxacan Chocolate and Corn-Based Cravings

This review explores a hands-on tour in Oaxaca City designed to introduce travelers to two of the region’s most iconic ingredients: corn and chocolate. Offered by Oaxacool Tours & Experiences, the tour promises a practical, enjoyable way to learn about traditional Oaxacan food without any prior cooking skills. While I haven’t taken this tour myself, I’ve gathered detailed insights based on descriptions, reviews, and what travelers can realistically expect.

What immediately draws us in are the opportunity to make fresh, organic Oaxacan chocolate from scratch—a rare chance to get a true taste of local ingredients—and the chance to learn authentic corn-based cooking from a local community. Both aspects promise not just a lesson in cooking, but an immersive dive into Oaxaca’s culinary culture.

A potential consideration is the price point of $550.20 per group—which for a 5-hour experience covering two cooking sessions, might seem steep for budget travelers. But if you value genuine local interaction and hands-on food preparation, this experience offers notable value. It’s best suited for those who appreciate culinary authenticity, local craftsmanship, and are eager to create memorable, edible souvenirs from their trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Learn to prepare traditional Oaxacan chocolate and corn-based dishes with local ingredients and cooks.
• Hands-On Approach: Active participation in making chocolate and tortillas offers a memorable, educational experience.
• Cultural Insight: The tour provides context about regional ingredients and cooking techniques in Oaxaca.
• Local Connection: The corn-based cooking class is led by a local from Mitla, giving an authentic community perspective.
• Food and Fun: Enjoy tasting the dishes you’ve made at the end, turning your cooking into a delicious reward.
• Convenient & Private: The experience is private, booked for your group, with a flexible schedule and easy access from public transportation.

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins at the Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca, a lush botanical garden in the heart of the city, at 9:00 am. The timing is perfect for those morning enthusiasts who want to combine a cultural walk with culinary discovery. With a duration of roughly five hours, it’s a manageable half-day activity, leaving plenty of time for other explorations in Oaxaca.

Since it’s a private experience, your group has the comfort of focused attention from the local guides and cooks. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

Making Oaxacan Chocolate

The first part of the tour involves creating Oaxacan chocolate from scratch. You’re taken through the process of selecting and grinding fresh, organic ingredients, which often include cacao beans and other flavorings. The emphasis on freshness and organic ingredients means you’ll appreciate the difference in flavor—more nuanced, vibrant, and true to traditional recipes.

Participants generally report enjoying the tactile experience—smashing cacao beans, mixing, and observing the transformation from raw beans to a smooth chocolate paste. The ability to take home your own chocolate is a delightful bonus, giving you a tangible souvenir of your culinary adventure.

One reviewer highlighted, “We loved the way the instructor made everything accessible and fun, even for beginners.” This approach makes the process approachable and educational, especially for those new to Mexican or Oaxacan cuisine.

Cooking Corn-Based Cravings

The second session shifts to traditional Oaxacan corn-based dishes, taught by a local cook from Mitla—a community famous for its indigenous traditions. Here, you’ll learn how to make tortillas, which are the backbone of many Mexican meals, and craft a delicious sauce from scratch.

The focus on corn dough—known locally as “masa”—is central to Oaxaca’s culinary identity. You’ll see how to shape tortillas by hand, a skill that might seem simple but is truly an art form. The instructor will guide you through creating authentic cravings, which are small, savory bites or accompaniments that complement your meal.

One participant noted, “The instructor was very patient, and I loved the hands-on approach—you really get a feel for the traditional techniques.” The class also includes making a traditional sauce, which adds depth and flavor to your dishes, making your cooking experience more complete.

The Feast: Enjoying Your Creations

After preparing your dishes, the tour culminates in a shared meal where you’ll taste your own creations. This moment of savoring the food you’ve made is genuinely satisfying, especially when you realize the effort behind each bite.

Reviewers often mention how delicious and “tapas-style” the meal feels, emphasizing the importance of authentic flavors and simple, hearty ingredients. It’s a great way to appreciate Oaxaca’s culinary roots firsthand.

Returning to Oaxaca City

Once the meal concludes, you’ll return to your starting point. The tour’s mix of cultural insight, hands-on activity, and delicious food makes for not just a cooking class, but a memorable glimpse into Oaxaca’s food traditions.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

While $550 might seem high at first glance, it covers the cost of two full cooking sessions, all ingredients, and personalized instruction. The opportunity to connect directly with local cooks and learn authentic techniques adds value that goes beyond typical restaurant experiences. Plus, the ability to take home your own chocolate and enjoy a meal of your own making makes it feel like a true culinary souvenir.

Suitability and Ideal Participants

This experience is perfect for food lovers, curious travelers, and those interested in cultural exchange. It’s also well-suited for small groups seeking a private, intimate session. If you’re looking for a straightforward, fun way to understand Oaxaca’s culinary heritage, this tour hits the right notes.

For travelers eager to step behind the scenes of Oaxaca’s food scene, this tour offers an authentic, hands-on approach that’s both fun and educational. You’ll love the chance to work directly with local ingredients—making chocolate from scratch and tortillas by hand—and to savor your own creations.

The experience’s focus on local community engagement and simple, delicious dishes makes it stand out among other culinary tours. The price reflects the personal attention, quality ingredients, and cultural depth involved. It’s a solid choice for those who want more than just eating out—they want to learn, create, and connect.

If your goal is to take home authentic souvenirs of your trip—like handmade chocolate—and gain a true appreciation for Oaxaca’s culinary traditions—this tour could be the highlight of your visit.

Q: How many people can participate in this tour?
A: The tour is for groups up to 6 people, making it intimate and personalized.

Q: What is included in the price?
A: The fee covers the entire 5-hour experience, all ingredients for making chocolate and tortillas, and the chance to enjoy your homemade meal.

Q: Is this experience suitable for beginners?
A: Absolutely. The tour is designed to be accessible, even if you have no prior cooking experience. The instructors guide you through each step.

Q: What do I need to bring?
A: You don’t need to bring anything special—just a desire to learn and enjoy. Aprons may be provided, but it’s good to wear comfortable clothes that can get a little flour or cacao on them.

Q: Can I take my homemade chocolate home?
A: Yes, you’ll have the opportunity to take your own freshly made chocolate with you at the end of the session.

Q: What if the weather is bad?
A: The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In summary, this tour offers a genuine taste of Oaxaca’s culinary soul through engaging, hands-on cooking with local ingredients. Perfect for those who love food, culture, and authentic experiences, it’s a chance to create delicious souvenirs and gain a deeper appreciation of Oaxaca’s cherished flavors.